Jackie Read was diagnosed with ovarian and peritoneal cancer in January 2013 but after nine cycles of chemotherapy she pulled through and in October was given the all clear.

Just one month later, however, the cancer cells returned and doctors gave her the devastating news that she had just 12 months left to live.

She said: “It was not a shock as such, but I was devastated that it had returned so quickly and aggressively.”

She and husband Robert, a pastor at the Chatteris Community Church, told her two children Geoffrey,38, and Yvonne, 36, and then decidced to do the skydive on learning that her daughter and friends were doing a jump for charity.

Jackie and Robert Read Sky Dive for charity. Picture: Steve Williams.

“She did one a couple of years ago and I said I wished I had done it. Well now’s my chance. Im a bit apprehensive but more excited to be doing something so amazing.”

With the support of husband Rob she takes each day as it comes but keeps with her a big smile and a huge sense of joy.

She said: “Ive had a great life, I make sure I stay positive as I know how healing that is.”

Being part of the church means they are involved in many prayer networks across the world, she said, from which she drew huge support.

Jackie Read Sky Dive for charity. Picture: Steve Williams.

“I get a tremendous sense of peace from being involved with the church, whether people believe it or not it is very supporting to know people all over the world are praying for you, if nothing else there is power in the strength of human compassion,” she said.

Mrs Reed, 59, of The Orchards, Chatteris, knew when her symptoms returned in November that things were pretty grim, but said that once she had got her head round it she was able to embrace each day in spite of now suffering mobility problems, numbness and fatigue.

“I feel lucky that I have Robert, he is a great support,” she said.

The couple will be diving out of a plane at the North London Parachute Centre at Block Fen, near Wimblington, as a way of saying thankyou to the Addenbrokes oncology department.

Robert Read Sky Dive for charity. Picture: Steve Williams.

The jump takes place on May 3.

To support Jackie and Robert visit the justgiving/jackie-read1 or text JRMY75 followed by the amount you would like to donate.

“We hope to raise £1,000 and have already reached the halfway mark but the more we can make the better as it is a great local cuase that does fantastic work,” Mrs Read said.

Chatteris Community Church meets every Sunday at the King Edward Centre in Chatteris at 10.30am.